One other calculation comes into play here-cost of running AC for a stopover in very hot weather. Here in southwest it is often cheaper to get a desert hookup site in the summer than running generator/air conditioner more than a few hours a day. If you're crossing AZ in the summer look for snowbird sites as good stopover. I've seen some of them very reasonable w/ Passport America.
As mentioned the generator does need to be run for maintenance purposes. I like to push that into actual productive use if possible. I don't usually run it in campsites, but often run it for lunch stops or rest stops during the day. Find a scenic park or pull off, fire up the generator and AC/microwave, re heat leftovers, look at the map, computer, make reservations, chat, relax for a bit. I do lot of trip planning that way en route. Locate where you won't disturb others with generator noise.
